Car accidents can be a very traumatic and stressful situation to be in. Even small accidents that do not cause serious injuries can often cause some panic. However, it is crucial for people involved in a car accident to remain calm and stay focused during these situations. This is because there are certain steps that should be taken after an accident to ensure the best outcome. These steps also help a future claim to have a good chance of success.
After an accident, it is beneficial for an individual to follow the steps below:
Call the Police
It is always good to contact law enforcement after an accident, even if another party tries to convince you not to. When the police arrive at the scene of the accident, they can make the scene safe by directing other traffic around the accident. In addition to this, they can draft an official police report, take statements from witnesses, and conduct chemical tests. These can all be useful if you wish to process a claim with your insurance company.
Do Not Apologize
While it can be an initial reaction to apologize for being involved in an accident, it is important to try and avoid doing so. This is because an apology can sometimes be interpreted as admitting fault in the accident. By not issuing an apology, you can avoid discussing liability with the other party involved. Instead of doing so, it is important to be polite and call any necessary emergency services.
Photo or Video of the Wreck
It is important to take photos and videos of the accident as long as it is safe to walk around the scene of the accident. This is to capture any broken glass, deployed airbags, skid marks, and bloodstains that occurred because of the incident. It can also be beneficial to record the weather and road conditions as help for a future claim.
Record Important Details
It should not be assumed that a police officer will document all the necessary information from the accident. This is why it is important to be proactive and record all details that can help file a claim. This can include the names and phone numbers of witnesses as well as the registration information of every vehicle involved in the collision.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
After an accident, it is important to seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine after the collision, it is possible to sustain an injury without realizing or experience later symptoms. Sometimes, emergency responders are on the scene of the accident that can help and conduct examinations. Even if you receive treatment on the scene, it is still a good idea to see a doctor for an official diagnosis. This will document your injuries, including where and what time they happened. This can be beneficial if you wish to file a claim.
Contact our Firm
The experienced personal injury and medical malpractice attorneys at Trombly & Singer, PLLC are prepared to represent clients facing legal matters after being injured due to another person’s negligence. If you require strong legal representation in Washington D.C. or Maryland, contact our firm today to schedule a consultation.